Stonger Together - Training Together, Responding Together

Public safety is a priority. Our first responders train for a variety of emergencies. Some of these are very high risk and require many first responders, such as natural disasters or large fires.

We’re part of the Dakota County Domestic Preparedness Committee, a partnership of 11 cities, the county and Dakota 911. This group, which includes police officers, firefighters and county staff, plans how first responders will work together in large-scale emergencies.

As many as 150 first responders gather each year to train for major emergencies. Last year, we trained at Inver Hills Community College, practicing our response to an active shooter, a building fire and civil unrest. We’re planning our 2024 training in Burnsville. Our first responders rely on one another, so it’s important we train together.

Some emergencies call for first responders with specialized training. The Dakota County Special

Operations Team includes Sheriff’s Office deputies and first responders from cities in the county — about 35 members in all. They train for industrial fires, building collapses, water rescues and more.

Regular training and good coordination reduce the potential for harm to the public in a real emergency.